10 Beautiful Reasons to Shop Small This Year

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that shopping small just feels different in the best way. Whether you’re grabbing a thoughtful gift, treating yourself, or supporting makers right in your own community, every purchase carries a little more heart behind it. In a world where two-day shipping is the norm, choosing to shop small is such a meaningful way to slow down, be intentional, and support real people and real families. So today, I’m sharing 10 beautiful reasons to shop small this year and a few of my favorite businesses worth checking out. Let’s make every dollar count in a way that actually matters.

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Your Purchase Supports Real People, Not Corporations

When you shop small, you’re helping real families, people who are pouring their time, passion, and creativity into their work. Every order truly makes a difference. It’s not just revenue… it’s groceries, sports fees for their kids, rent, or even the confidence to keep chasing their dream.

Commonwealth Candle

Formerly Highland Wax Bar, Commonwealth Candle is a Louisville-based candle studio that creates beautifully crafted, hand-poured candles. Their scents are thoughtful, nostalgic, and intentionally designe. Nothing overpowering, nothing artificial. just that clean, cozy, “I want my whole house to smell like this” vibe. I discovered them a while back and instantly fell in love with how balanced and comforting their candles are.

Why I love it: Every candle feels like a little story, and the quality is absolutely top-tier.
Pro tip: Their seasonal scents go FAST, grab your favorites early before they sell out!

You Get Unique, High-Quality Items

Small businesses put so much love into what they create. Whether it’s handcrafted jewelry, boutique clothing, or a custom home décor piece,when you shop small you’re getting something that isn’t mass-produced and that’s a huge win if you want thoughtful, meaningful gifts.

Karma Stacks

This Minnesota gem is super meaningful. Founded by Jeanna after her colon-cancer diagnosis, Karma Stacks creates high-quality bracelets and necklaces where each stone carries a meaning. I had a custom bracelet made in memory of my dad (pancreatic cancer) and it turned out stunning.

Why it’s meaningful: Jewelry plus story = gift that counts.
Pro tip: Ask about custom-orders, she can match the colors/meaning you’re looking for.

You Strengthen Your Local Community

When you shop small at local businesses, your dollars stay local. They support your community, your neighbors, and your local economy. Even if you shop online, many small shops are rooted in local towns and rely heavily on community support.

The Wishing Elephant

My cousin Carolyn started this sweet business, crafting adorable kids clothing from tees and sweatshirts to the occasional halloween costume. She also does occasional adult drops! What started at her kitchen table has grown into something beautiful.
Why it’s fun: Unique kids gear that doesn’t feel mass-produced.
Pro tip: Join her VIP list for flash sales and be the first to know about new releases!

You’re Investing in Someone’s Dream

Behind every small business is a dream someone was brave enough to chase. Whether it’s a mom starting a candle shop from her kitchen table or someone turning their creative hobby into something bigger, when you shop small your purchase keeps that dream alive.

Ricki and Sons

Ricki and Sons is a local family owned business specializing in mostly custom metal projects. When I first saw one of the lake signs they make I was immediately hooked and I dreamed of having one on my favorite lake Sunapee someday. However, my kids and ex-husband surprised me with just that on my birthday one year so my wish was quickly fulfilled! In addition, they have a wide range of cool pre-made items available or they can work with you on a custom project!

Why it’s personal: Big on custom, great for milestone gifts.
Pro tip: Custom pieces may take longer, order with enough lead time.

Customer Service Is More Personal

Small business owners genuinely care. They answer messages, help with sizing questions, accommodate custom orders, and go above and beyond because your purchase really matters to them. When you shop small you’re not just an order number, you’re a valued part of their community.

Minnesota Beanies

If you want handmade and local, this one’s for you. She currently sells on Instagram, Facebook and Amazon. She will also take custom orders for beanies and hats.
Why it’s great: Perfect for winter, family photos, or holiday stocking stuffers.
Pro tip: Reach out early for custom orders!

It Encourages Sustainable & Ethical Shopping

A lot of small businesses focus on sustainable materials, small-batch production, and ethical sourcing. When you shop small you can feel good knowing exactly where your items come from and the care that went into them.

Homestead House

Started by my Aunt Kristl in Portland (though now under new ownership), this small-batch gem offers home products made with high-quality, natural, ingredients. I’m talking room sprays, candles, soaps, everything smells so fresh.
Why it’s elevated: Home-care meets gift-level detail.
Pro tip: Bundle a few items into a “self‐care home kit” or aroma-gift box.

You Discover New Makers & Hidden Gems

Shopping small almost always leads to discovering the coolest little shops – those finds you want to tell all your friends about. Instagram businesses, Etsy artists, local boutiques… it’s so fun exploring new creators and unique pieces.

Sota Clothing Company

This local Minnesota brand (shop in St. Louis Park or Stillwater + online) is full of fun hats, sweaters, wine glasses, even cribbage boards. Call it the “something for everyone” kind of shop.
Why it’s versatile: Gifts for men, women, kids – all under one roof.
Pro tip: If you’re local, shop real-life for Small Business Saturday for one of a kind gifts!

You Can Customize & Personalize Your Gifts

Whether you’re ordering jewelry, apparel, home décor, or accessories, many small shops offer custom options. Personalized gifts feel so thoughtful and intentional, and small businesses are usually more than happy to bring your ideas to life.

GoGo Refill

Another one of my incredibly talented cousins (seriously, entrepreneurial skills run in the family!), GoGo Refill is a zero-waste refill shop based in Maine that makes sustainable living feel simple – not overwhelming. From refillable cleaning products and plastic-free kitchen essentials to personal care items you can feel good about, everything in the shop is thoughtfully curated to help reduce waste in an approachable, everyday way. You can also many of the items online.

Why it’s impactful: Practical, eco-friendly swaps that genuinely make a difference.
Pro tip: Start with a couple of easy refills- hand soap or all-purpose cleaner – and you’ll be hooked on how effortless it feels.

You Can Customize & Personalize Your Gifts

Whether you’re ordering jewelry, apparel, home décor, or accessories, many small shops offer custom options. Personalized gifts feel so thoughtful and intentional, and small businesses are usually more than happy to bring your ideas to life.

You Build Real Connections

There’s something really special about being a “regular” at a small shop. Owners remember your past purchases, recognize your name, and appreciate you on a deeper level. It feels like community because it is.

Small Shoppers Make a Big Impact

For small businesses, every single sale counts. Your support can be the reason they grow, expand their offerings, or simply keep going. And honestly? Knowing your order made someone do a happy dance feels pretty great.

Final Thoughts

Shopping small truly makes a difference, not just during the holidays, but all year long. If you’ve been wanting to be more intentional with your purchases or support the makers and shops that bring so much heart into their work, this is your sign.

And if you want more small business spotlights, gift guides, and everyday tips, be sure to follow me on Instagram or join my private Facebook group. I’d love to have you there!